Laura Chanchien Parajón, MD, MPH, acting director of the CDC's National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, released a statement on the passing of Christine Brader. Brader was known for her role as a participant in the CDC’s Tips From Former Smokers campaign for 13 years.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the loss of Christine Brader, a devoted mother, grandmother, friend, and champion of anti-smoking efforts. For 13 years, Christine served proudly as a participant in CDC's Tips From Former Smokers campaign. She was 62,” Parajón said.
Brader was diagnosed three times with oral cancer related to smoking. Her treatment included 35 radiation sessions, chemotherapy, and removal of half her jaw. Despite these health challenges, she shared her experience publicly through the CDC campaign to help raise awareness about the risks of smoking.
“Christine was diagnosed three separate times with oral cancer due to smoking, ultimately requiring 35 radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and the removal of half her jaw. Despite her health challenges, she bravely came forward to share her story as part of the Tips From Former Smokers campaign. Christine's story helped save lives. She will be remembered for her courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to protecting others from the health issues she experienced,” Parajón added.
The CDC extended condolences to Brader’s family and friends: “We extend our deep condolences to Christine's family, friends, and all who knew and cared about her.”
Videos featuring Brader’s story remain available on the CDC website (https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/stories/christine.html).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues its mission by providing information on disease prevention and supporting public health research across communities in the United States. The agency focuses on identifying diseases quickly—whether they originate domestically or internationally—and invests in local initiatives designed to protect public health nationwide.
